things to do with kids in rhode island
Updated Tue 10/13/2026
PROVIDENCE
HAFFENREFFER MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY
Updated
ABOUT
The Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology is a teaching and research museum operated by Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. It is known for its extensive collection of over 900,000 archaeological artifacts and 70,000 archaeological and 6,000 ethnological objects from North America, Latin America, Africa, and the Pacific. The museum aims to inspire creative and critical thinking about culture through interdisciplinary understanding of the material world.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Families visiting the museum can expect to see changing exhibitions that highlight collections from around the world, including significant materials from Native North America. The museum offers educational programs for various age groups, including structured group programs for local schools. Visitors can also engage with public lectures, performances, and festivals throughout the year.
GOOD TO KNOW
The Haffenreffer Museum's origins date back to the early 20th century, founded by Rudolf F. Haffenreffer, who began collecting Native American artifacts in 1903. The museum was officially established in 1928 and was later donated to Brown University in 1955. The museum is currently in the process of relocating its collections from Bristol to a new site in Providence, with plans supported by a $5 million grant.
UPCOMING EVENTS as of 10/18/2026
THIS WEEK: SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18 · COMING UP: THE 4 WEEKS AFTER
No dated events on our list for Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology right now. Most visits here need no event — check hours on their site.
Full schedule at hma.brown.edu/education/prek-12-programs →
Something wrong or out of date here? Tell us — we fix listings within a week.
On nearby this week and next
Next two weeks · from our weekly check of each venue's own calendar
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